| 1. Title: Impact of new WHO growth standards on the prevalence of acute malnutrition and operations of feeding programs - Darfur, Sudan, 2005-2007. Author: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Source: MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 2009 Jun 5;58(21):591-4. Abstract: Acute malnutrition among children aged 6-59 months is a key indicator routinely used for describing the presence and magnitude of humanitarian emergencies. In the past, the prevalence of acute malnutrition and admissions to feeding programs has been determined using the growth reference developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), CDC, and the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS). In 2006, WHO released new international growth standards and recommended their use in all nutrition programs. To evaluate the impact of transitioning to the new standards, CDC analyzed anthropometric data for children aged 6-59 months from Darfur, Sudan, collected during 2005-2007. This report describes the results of that analysis, which indicated that use of the new standards would have increased the prevalence of global acute malnutrition on average by 14% and would have increased the prevalence of severe acute malnutrition on average by 100%. Admissions to feeding programs would have increased by 56% for moderately malnourished children and by 260% for severely malnourished children. For programs in Darfur, this would have resulted in approximately 23,200 more children eligible for therapeutic feeding programs. For the immediate future, the prevalence of acute malnutrition in children should be reported using both the old WHO/CDC/NCHS reference and the new WHO standards. More research is needed to better ascertain the validity of the admission criteria based on the new WHO standards in predicting malnutrition-related morbidity and mortality. Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | SUMMARY REPORT | WHO | STANDARDS | PREVALENCE | CHILD DEVELOPMENT | GROWTH | MALNUTRITION | NUTRITION PROGRAMS | EVALUATION | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | UN | International Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Research Methodology | Measurement | Biology | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 341622 |
2.  Title: Maternal and perinatal outcome in teenage pregnancies in Sudan. Author: Adam GK; Elhassan EM; Ahmed AM; Adam I Source: International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics. 2009 May;105(2):170-1. Abstract: Pregnancy and childbirth in teenage women pose special risks for both mother and baby. As well as significant medical, nutritional, social, and economic risks, teenage pregnancy is associated with increased risks for adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and death in the neonatal or postnatal periods. There is a paucity of literature regarding the maternal and perinatal outcome of teenage pregnancies in Sudan, Africa. The aim of the present study was to assess the risk of anemia, operative delivery, and perinatal complications (mainly low birth weight) among primiparous teenagers with a singleton delivery compared with a similar group of women aged 20-24 years. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | RESEARCH REPORT | COMPARATIVE STUDIES | PREGNANT WOMEN | ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY | PREGNANCY OUTCOMES | ANEMIA | LOW BIRTH WEIGHT | MATERNAL AGE | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Reproductive Behavior | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Diseases | Birth Weight | Body Weight | Physiology | Biology | Parental Age | Age Factors | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors Document Number: 341382 |
| 3. Title: Wealth Index association with gender issues and the reproductive health of Egyptian women. Author: Afifi M Source: Nursing and Health Sciences. 2009 Mar;11(1):29-36. Abstract: This study investigated the association of the Wealth Index of married women in Egypt with a number of gender and reproductive health issues found in the 2005 Egypt Demographic Health Survey. The data from a subsample of 5249 currently married women from a total of 19,474 was examined using logistic regression analysis. The women's lowest wealth quintile predicted the intention to continue female genital cutting for their daughters, exposure to physical and sexual marital violence, not being empowered in household decisions, having a higher number of children, having an unintended last child, mothers' maltreatment of their children, the perception of a lack of health-care providers or drugs as an obstacle to receiving care, and not being covered by health insurance. The association of poverty with the aforementioned adverse health outcomes are discussed. Physicians should understand the effect of poverty on health and endeavour to influence policy-makers to reduce the poverty burden on health. Language: English Keywords: EGYPT | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | WOMEN | GENDER ISSUES | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | POVERTY | ANTENATAL CARE | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | WOMEN'S HEALTH | HEALTH POLICY | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Sociocultural Factors | Health | Economic Factors | Maternal Health Services | Maternal-Child Health Services | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Policy | Political Factors Document Number: 342089 |
| 4. Title: Women's empowerment and the intention to continue the practice of female genital cutting in Egypt. Author: Afifi M Source: Archives of Iranian Medicine. 2009 Mar;12(2):154-60. Abstract: BACKGROUND: The study aimed to (dis)prove the association of the level of women's empowerment with their future intention to perpetuate female genital cutting for their daughters. METHODS: In a national representative community-based sample of 14,393 currently-married women in Egypt, the level of empowerment, intention to continue the practice, and other socio- demographic variables were collected in the 2000 Egypt Demographic and Health Survey. Secondary in-depth analysis was conducted on data downloaded from MEASURE Demographic Health Surveys (MEASURE DHS) website.RESULTS: About 14% of the women intended to discontinue the practice. Twenty-six percent of the women were empowered in all household decisions. Levels of women's empowerment adjusted for age, residence, education, interaction between empowerment and education, work status, and female genital cutting status of currently-married women were entered in six logistic regression models in a sequential way.CONCLUSION: In the last model, those of high levels of empowerment and education were 8.06 times more likely not intending to perpetuate female genital cutting for their daughters than low- empowered low-educated women. Language: English Keywords: EGYPT | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | CURRENTLY MARRIED | WOMEN | FEMALE GENITAL CUTTING | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | DECISION MAKING | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | OCCUPATIONAL STATUS | ATTITUDES | AGE FACTORS | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Data Analysis | Research Methodology | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Harmful Traditional Practices | Traditional Health Practices | Culture | Sociocultural Factors | Women's Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Behavior | Socioeconomic Status | Employment Status | Psychological Factors | Population Characteristics Document Number: 342003 |
| 5. Peer Reviewed Title: Pill scare: communication conundrum. Author: Edouard L Source: Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care. 2009 Apr;35(2):121-2. Abstract: Adverse publicity for combined oral contraceptives (COCs) has led to pill scares on numerous occasions such as reproductive cancers in 1983 and venous thromboembolism (VTE) in 1995. Misinformation should be avoided, especially through the correct interpretation of relative risk to avoid confusion and decrease unnecessary anxiety. Reassurance is usually important, as the absolute risk is infinitely small. The popular media are very effective for the prompt dissemination of information, and authoritative statements are useful for improving communications with providers, patients and public. Language: English Keywords: ALGERIA | HISTORICAL REVIEW | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES, COMBINED | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES, SIDE EFFECTS | MISINFORMATION | FEAR | RISK ASSESSMENT | CANCER | THROMBOEMBOLISM | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | PUBLIC HEALTH | Africa, North | Africa | Developing Countries | Oral Contraceptives | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Contraceptive Safety | Safety | Health | Communication | Emotions | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Evaluation | Neoplasms | Diseases | Embolism | Vascular Diseases Document Number: 341650 |
| 6. Title: The right to contraception and the wrongs of restrictive services. Author: Edouard L Source: International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics. 2009 May 1; Abstract: Rights come with responsibilities for individuals, service providers, and purveyors. The operationalization of the right to contraception, for universal access to a wide range of effective methods, necessitates very different but complementary interventions. A rights-based approach should aim to respect, protect, and fulfill rights. The wishes of individuals concerning childbearing necessitate informed choice, access to services, and lack of prejudice. Equity should be addressed through the strengthening of health systems, especially primary health care, with emphasis on the needs of underserved populations. Official pronouncements on population issues necessitate commitments. A philosophy of rights is particularly useful for service implementation, including the introduction of new contraceptive methods, by addressing the responsibilities of duty bearers and the claims of right holders. With the rights to and overwhelming health benefits of contraception, it is imperative to reverse the wrongs of limited reproductive health services. Language: English Keywords: ALGERIA | RESEARCH REPORT | FAMILY PLANNING | HUMAN RIGHTS | SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT | GOALS | SEXUALITY | HEALTH | GENDER ISSUES | Africa, North | Africa | Developing Countries | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Economic Factors | Planning | Organization and Administration | Personality | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 341047 |
| 7. Peer Reviewed Title: Toward replacement fertility in Egypt and Tunisia. Author: Eltigani EE Source: Studies in Family Planning. 2009 Sep;40(3):215-226. Abstract: Egypt and Tunisia began their fertility transition at almost identical fertility levels and at roughly the same time period, yet the difference in the pace of decline has been such that the total fertility rate (TFR) in Tunisia reached replacement level by the year 2001, whereas the TFR in Egypt remains above three live births per woman. This article draws on the secondary literature and on several nationally representative surveys from the two countries between 1978 and 2005 to provide empirical evidence of the difference in the pace of fertility decline and to analyze the determinants of the differential. Findings include (a) variation across the two countries in the consistency of fertility decline among the segments of the population leading the transition; (b) that the success of each country’s family planning program was influenced by the role of political leaders and the extent of the program’s integration with socioeconomic development objectives; (c) that the impact of contraception on TFR decline became an important factor in the mid-1980s; and (d) that the greatest determinant of the discrepancy in the pace of fertility decline is the disparity in age at marriage, which rose more significantly in Tunisia than in Egypt. The latter finding indicates that reaching replacement fertility in Egypt hinges primarily on further declines in marital fertility, resulting from reduction of wanted fertility and from an expansion of family planning program coverage and improved efficiency of service delivery and use. Language: English Keywords: EGYPT | TUNISIA | RESEARCH REPORT | LITERATURE REVIEW | BELOW REPLACEMENT FERTILITY | FERTILITY DECLINE | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | MARITAL FERTILITY | FAMILY PLANNING PROGRAMS | HEALTH SERVICES | DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Population Decrease | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Fertility Changes | Fertility | Economic Factors | Family Planning | Health Document Number: 339703 |
| 8. Title: HIV and HCV progression in parenterally coinfected children. Author: England K; Thorne C; Castelli-Gattinara G; Vigano A; El Mehabresh MI; Newell ML Source: Current HIV Research. 2009 May;7(3):346-53. Abstract: Shared transmission routes of HCV and HIV mean parenteral HIV/HCV coinfection still occurs, often in resource-limited settings. The extent to which coinfection and treatment impact on morbidity and mortality in HIV/HCV coinfected children remains unknown thus optimal management and treatment is difficult to achieve. Using data from a unique, large, prospective cohort of parenterally HIV/HCV coinfected children in Libya we determine the immunological, virological and clinical profiles of HIV/HCV coinfected children documenting the natural and treated history of parenterally acquired coinfection for the first time in such a large group. 160 parenterally HIV/HCV coinfected children were analysed. Thirty-three (21%) received antiretroviral treatment (ART) for HIV disease during follow-up. In children receiving ART, HIV RNA viral load decreased in two-thirds 6-12 months after initiation. 85% (17/20) experienced a positive immunological response to ART with a median increase in CD4 cell count z-score of 131%. Half had progressed to moderate or severe immunosuppression and/or moderate or severe clinical symptoms three years after infection. In those who progressed during follow-up, 85% had done so within three years of infection. Children progressing to moderate or severe immunosuppression and/or clinical symptoms were significantly more likely to be receiving ART. This novel investigation of the natural and treated history of parenterally HIV/HCV coinfected children in a large prospectively followed group demonstrates minimal clinical symptoms and immunosuppression to date, despite low prevalence of treatment, and a response to ART similar to vertically HIV-only infected children. Language: English Keywords: LIBYA | RESEARCH REPORT | PROSPECTIVE STUDIES | CHILDREN | HIV INFECTIONS | HEPATITIS | INFECTION TRANSMISSION | NEEDLE PIERCING | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | IMMUNOLOGICAL EFFECTS | TIME FACTORS | Africa, North | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Infections | Risk Behavior | Behavior | HIV | Immunity | Immune System | Physiology | Biology | Population Dynamics Document Number: 341771 |
| 9. Title: Use of family planning services in Darfur, Sudan. Author: Haggaz A; Ahmed S; Adam I Source: International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics. 2009 Mar;104(3):247-8. Abstract: High fertility rates and inadequate spacing between births can lead to high maternal and infant mortality. An estimated 600 000 maternal deaths occur worldwide each year, and the vast majority take place in low-income countries. The World Health Organization estimates that 13% of these deaths are due to unsafe abortions. Worldwide, where approximately 50 million women resort to induced abortion, this frequently results in high rates of maternal morbidity and mortality. Family planning and adequate spacing between births are important methods to help avoid these deaths. Little published data are available regarding the use of family planning services in Sudan-the largest country in Africa, with 40 million inhabitants-although high maternal mortality and inadequate utilization of prenatal care in Darfur have been reported previously. In Alfasher, the area considered in the present study, the Sudanese Family Planning Association has an office that provides services such as contraceptive pills and intrauterine contraceptive devices free of charge. A community-based cross-sectional household survey was conducted in Alfashar, in April and June 2008, to investigate the use of and factors associated with family planning services. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | RESEARCH REPORT | STATISTICAL STUDIES | WOMEN | FAMILY PLANNING PROGRAMS | UTILIZATION OF HEALTH CARE | AGE FACTORS | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | PARITY | FAMILY PLANNING EDUCATION | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Studies | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Planning | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Population Characteristics | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Education Document Number: 341389 |
| 10. Title: Education, prenatal care, and poor perinatal outcome in Khartoum, Sudan. Author: Hassan AA; Abubaker MS; Radi EA; Adam I Source: International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics. 2009 Apr;105(1):66-7. Abstract: Perinatal outcome is an important indicator of obstetric care and health status. Reducing the incidence of low birth weight neonates by at least one third between 2000 and 2010 is one of the major goals of the United Nations resolution "A World Fit for Children" and is an important contribution toward Millennium Development Goal (MDG) 4 which is to reduce child mortality by two thirds by 2015. Local surveillance and basic epidemiology can more accurately assess perinatal outcome and identify areas to which interventions should be targeted. The aims of the present study were to identify and quantify the risk factors for low birth weight neonates and perinatal mortality in Sudan, and to assess the role of sociodemographic factors. Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | RESEARCH REPORT | STATISTICAL STUDIES | MOTHERS | ANTENATAL CARE | LOW BIRTH WEIGHT | RISK FACTORS | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | ANTHROPOMETRY | PREGNANCY OUTCOMES | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Studies | Research Methodology | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Maternal Health Services | Maternal-Child Health Services | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Birth Weight | Body Weight | Physiology | Biology | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Measurement | Pregnancy | Reproduction Document Number: 341386 |
| 11. Peer Reviewed Title: CONSANGUINEOUS MARRIAGES IN MOROCCO AND THE CONSEQUENCE FOR THE INCIDENCE OF AUTOSOMAL RECESSIVE DISORDERS. Author: Jaouad IC; Elalaoui SC; Sbiti A; Elkerh F; Belmahi L; Sefiani A Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2009 May 12;:1-7. Abstract: SummaryConsanguineous marriage is traditionally common throughout Arab countries. This leads to an increased birth prevalence of infants with recessive disorders, congenital malformations, morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the rate of consanguineous marriage in families with autosomal recessive diseases, and to compare it with the average rate of consanguinity in the Moroccan population. The study was conducted in the Department of Medical Genetics in Rabat on 176 families with autosomal recessive diseases diagnosed and confirmed by clinical, radiological, enzymatic or molecular investigations. The rate of consanguinity was also studied in 852 families who had infants with trisomy 21 confirmed by karyotyping. These families were chosen because: (i) there is no association between trisomy 21 and consanguinity, (ii) these cases are referred from different regions of Morocco and (iii) they concern all social statuses. Among 176 families with autosomal recessive disorders, consanguineous marriages comprised 59.09% of all marriages. The prevalence of consanguinity in Morocco was found to be 15.25% with a mean inbreeding coefficient of 0.0065. The differences in the rates of consanguineous marriages were highly significant when comparing the general population and couples with offspring affected by autosomal recessive conditions. These results place Morocco among the countries in the world with high rates of consanguinity. Autosomal recessive disorders are strongly associated with consanguinity. This study better defines the health risks associated with consanguinity for the development of genetic educational guidelines targeted at the public and the health sector. Language: English Keywords: MOROCCO | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | COUPLES | CHILDREN | PREVALENCE | INCIDENCE | CONGENITAL ABNORMALITIES | CONSANGUINITY | SOCIAL CLASS | BIRTH DEFECTS | Africa, North | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Measurement | Neonatal Diseases and Abnormalities | Diseases | Genetics | Biology | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors Document Number: 341479 |
| 12. Peer Reviewed Title: Effect of etonogestrel contraceptive implant (Implanon) on portal blood flow and liver functions. Author: Nasr A; Nafeh HM Source: Contraception. 2009 Mar;79(3):236-9. Abstract: BACKGROUND: This study was conducted to evaluate changes in portal blood flow and liver functions among women using Implanon for 2 years. STUDY DESIGN: Fifty healthy Implanon users were enrolled in this longitudinal study and followed up for 24 months. Portal blood flow, assessed by color Doppler; prothrombin time and concentration; serum albumin; bilirubin; gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT); alanine aminotransferase (ALT); and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured before and 24 months after insertion. RESULTS: After 24 months of Implanon insertion, there were no significant changes in portal blood flow, serum albumin, prothrombin time or concentration. However, there was a significant increase in serum levels of total and unconjugated bilirubin and GGT and a significant decrease in ALT and AST levels. All levels, however, remained within the normal range of values. CONCLUSIONS: Implanon use for 2 years does not seem to influence portal hemodynamics. Changes in serum levels of bilirubin, GGT, ALT and AST are unlikely to be of clinical significance. Language: English Keywords: EGYPT | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | LONGITUDINAL STUDIES | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | CONTRACEPTIVE IMPLANTS | VASCULAR DISEASES | HEPATIC EFFECTS | LONGTERM EFFECTS | SERUM PROTEIN EFFECTS | THROMBOSIS | TIME FACTORS | BILIRUBINEMIA | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Research Methodology | Studies | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Diseases | Physiology | Biology | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Hematological Effects | Hemic System | Thromboembolism | Embolism Document Number: 330053 |
| 13. Title: Formative assessment of youth reproductive health needs in Menofia and Ismailia governorates. Author: Oraby D; Hafez Z Source: [Cairo, Egypt], Family Health International [FHI], 2009 May. 73 p. Abstract: This document provides results of a formative assessment of youth reproductive health needs in two governorates of Egypt. Based on data collected, the authors recommend interventions that should be included in a strategic behavioral communication (SBC) plan designed to encourage young people to use youth-friendly services. Among the recommendations are engaging peer educators, using web-based media and mobile phone technology to reach youth, engaging parents, and mobilizing communities. Language: English Keywords: EGYPT | SUMMARY REPORT | YOUTH | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | HIV PREVENTION | AIDS PREVENTION | KNOWLEDGE | HEALTH SERVICES | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | VOLUNTARY COUNSELING AND TESTING | FAMILY PLANNING | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | AIDS | Sociocultural Factors | Delivery of Health Care | Human Rights | Political Factors | HIV Testing | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine Document Number: 331833 |
| 14. Title: A rights-based approach to accessing health determinants. Author: Perkins F Source: Global Health Promotion. 2009 Mar;16(1):61-4. Abstract: This commentary summarizes the experience and learnings from a site visit in May 2008 to a drop-in centre for vulnerable women in downtown Cairo run by El-Shehab Institution for Comprehensive Development, which provides street outreach for the prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI). The Centre successfully provides services and support for women, many of who are displaced or refugees and are from the most marginalized areas in Cairo. Through a rights-based approach to the work, the Centre helps people living in the slums fight and win the right to access clean water, sewerage and electrical power in their communities. An individual-based approach to human rights is also used. In the last year El-Shehab have helped 67 women go to court and win their marriage rights from husbands who have abandoned them. Their approach is an example of a successful way to achieve access to basic health determinants. Language: English Keywords: EGYPT | SLUMS | CRITIQUE | NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS | SEX WORKERS | HIV PREVENTION | AIDS PREVENTION | HUMAN RIGHTS | HEALTH | ADVOCACY | WATER SUPPLY | SANITATION | ELECTRICITY | COURT DECISION | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Urbanization | Urban Population Distribution | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Sex Behavior | Behavior | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | AIDS | Communication | Natural Resources | Environment | Public Health | Energy Supply | Litigation Document Number: 342373 |
| 15. Title: Post-conflict mental health needs: a cross-sectional survey of trauma, depression, and associated factors in Juba, Southern Sudan. Author: Roberts B; Damundu EY; Lomoro O; Sondorp E Source: BioMed Central. 2009 Mar 4;9(7):1-10. Abstract: Background: The signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in January 2005 marked the end of the civil conflict in Sudan lasting over 20 years. The conflict was characterised by widespread violence and large-scale forced migration. Mental health is recognised as a key public health issue for conflict-affected populations. Studies revealed high levels of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) amongst populations from Southern Sudan during the conflict. However, no studies have been conducted on mental health in post-war Southern Sudan. The objective of this study was to measure PTSD and depression in the population in the town of Juba in Southern Sudan; and to investigate the association of demographic, displacement, and past and recent trauma exposure variables, on the outcomes of PTSD and depression. Methods: A cross-sectional, random cluster survey with a sample of 1242 adults (aged over 18 years) was conducted in November 2007 in the town of Juba, the capital of Southern Sudan. Levels of exposure to traumatic events and PTSD were measured using the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire (original version), and levels of depression measured using the Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyse the association of demographic, displacement and trauma exposure variables on the outcomes of PTSD and depression. Multivariate logistic regression was also conducted to investigate which demographic and displacement variables were associated with exposure to traumatic events. Results: Over one third (36%) of respondents met symptom criteria for PTSD and half (50%) of respondents met symptom criteria for depression. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed strong associations of gender, marital status, forced displacement, and trauma exposure with outcomes of PTSD and depression. Men, IDPs, and refugees and persons displaced more than once were all significantly more likely to have experienced eight or more traumatic events. Conclusion: This study provides evidence of high levels of mental distress in the population of Juba Town, and associated risk-factors. Comprehensive social and psychological assistance is urgently required in Juba. Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS | ADULTS | INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS | REFUGEES | WAR | MENTAL HEALTH | NEEDS | STRESS | DEPRESSION | PREVALENCE | SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Data Analysis | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Settlement and Resettlement | Migration | Population Dynamics | Migrants | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Health | Economic Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Mental Disorders | Diseases | Measurement Document Number: 340211 |
| 16. Title: Breastfeeding and contraception use among women with unplanned pregnancies less than 2 years after delivery. Author: Tilley IB; Shaaban OM; Wilson M; Glasier A; Mishell DR Jr Source: International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics. 2009;105:127-130. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To examine breastfeeding and contraceptive use after the lactational amenorrhea method (LAM) criteria were no longer met. METHODS: Two hundred and thirty-three parous Egyptian women with unplanned pregnancies less than 2 years after delivery completed a questionnaire examining breastfeeding practice and contraceptive use. RESULTS: The majority of women (81.5%) with unplanned pregnancies within 2 years of delivery were breastfeeding at conception. Of these women, 36.3% had used a method of contraception other than LAM compared with 60.5% of women who had weaned (P<0.05). Among the breastfeeding women, 61.2% failed to use contraception because they believed breastfeeding would prevent pregnancy. CONCLUSION: Breastfeeding women with unplanned pregnancies were less likely to have used contraception than women who had weaned, suggesting that prolonged breastfeeding contributes to unmet contraceptive need. Language: English Keywords: EGYPT | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | CONTRACEPTIVE PREVALENCE SURVEYS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | MOTHERS | BREASTFEEDING | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | PREGNANCY, UNPLANNED | LACTATIONAL AMENORRHEA METHOD | CONTRACEPTIVE PREVALENCE | WEANING | BELIEFS | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Family Planning Surveys | Family Planning | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Infant Nutrition | Nutrition | Health | Contraception | Reproductive Behavior | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Planning, Behavioral Methods | Culture Document Number: 330421 |
17.  Title: Expanding access to contraception: How ability to pay effects use and source of IUDs. Author: Abt Associates. Private Sector Partnerships One [PSP-One] Source: [Bethesda, Maryland], Abt Associates, PSP-One, [2008]. 2 p. (Global Research Brief. LAPM Brief 2USAID Contract No. GPO-I-00-04-00007-00) Abstract: This brief looks at where women get their IUDs and how source varies with ability to pay. Because NGOs generally subsidize services, this analysis disaggregates the private sector into its commercial and NGO components. (Excerpt) Language: English Keywords: PERU | COLOMBIA | BOLIVIA | EGYPT | SUMMARY REPORT | CONTRACEPTIVE PREVALENCE | WOMEN | IUD | HEALTH SERVICES | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | FAMILY PLANNING | Developing Countries | South America, Western | South America | Latin America | Americas | South America, Northern | South America, Central | Africa, North | Africa | Contraceptive Usage | Contraception | Demographic Factors | Population | Contraceptive Methods | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Health Services Evaluation | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 331618 |
| 18. Title: Expanding access to contraception: IUD fees and subsidies in Egypt. Author: Abt Associates. Private Sector Partnerships One [PSP-One] Source: Bethesda, Maryland, Abt Associates, PSP-One, [2008]. 2 p. (Global Research Brief. LAPM Brief 3USAID Contract No. GPO-I-00-04-00007-00) Abstract: One way for developing countries to afford the costs of family planning is to reduce the number of women with high ability to pay from obtaining subsidized (public) services. Various papers have pointed out that wealthy women receive a subsidy when they use the public sector. This brief describes the first attempt, as far as we know, to calculate this subsidy. The brief focuses specifically on Egypt and on IUDs. We estimated that direct costs of IUD provision in the public and NGO sectors in Egypt totaled $3.08 ($1.25 for insertion by the doctor, $0.95 for counseling by the nurse, $0.58 for the IUD, and $0.30 for other supplies required for insertion). Prices women pay vary substantially by sector, and are highest in the commercial sector and lowest in the public sector. The price varies with wealth within the commercial and NGO sectors but not within the public sector. The average price paid by IUD users in the commercial sector increases substantially with wealth. In fact, women in the highest quintile pay a price about twice that brief of women in the lowest quintile. The wealthiest IUD users also pay the highest prices in the NGO sector, while those in the third and fourth quintile pay somewhat less, and users in the lowest two quintiles pay the lowest prices. Users who access the public and NGO sectors, regardless of ability to pay, always paid an average price lower than did women accessing the commercial sector. (Excerpts) Language: English Keywords: EGYPT | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | CURRENTLY MARRIED | WOMEN | CONTRACEPTIVE AVAILABILITY | IUD | FEES | SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS | COMMERCIAL SECTOR | PUBLIC SECTOR | RESOURCE ALLOCATION | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Contraception | Family Planning | Contraceptive Methods | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Commerce | Macroeconomic Factors Document Number: 331619 |
| 19. Title: Five years on. No justice for sexual violence in Darfur. Author: Human Rights Watch Source: New York, New York, Human Rights Watch, 2008 Apr. 44 p. (1-56432-302-1) Abstract: Five years into the armed conflict in Sudan's Darfur region, women and girls living in displaced persons camps, towns, and rural areas remain extremely vulnerable to sexual violence. Sexual violence continues to occur throughout the region, both in the context of continuing attacks on civilians, and during periods of relative calm. Those responsible are usually men from the Sudanese security forces, militias, rebel groups, and former rebel groups, who target women and girls predominantly (but not exclusively) from Fur, Zaghawa, Masalit, Berti, Tunjur, and other non-Arab ethnicities. Survivors of sexual violence in Darfur have no meaningful access to redress. They fear the consequences of reporting their cases to the authorities and lack the resources needed to prosecute their attackers. Police are physically present only in principal towns and government outposts, and they lack the basic tools and political will for responding to sexual violence crimes and conducting investigations. Police frequently fail to register complaints or conduct proper investigations. While some police seem genuinely committed to service, many exhibit an antagonistic and dismissive attitude toward women and girls. These difficulties are exacerbated by the reluctance-and limited ability-of police to investigate crimes committed by soldiers or militia, who often gain effective immunity under laws that protect them from civilian prosecution. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | CRITIQUE | RECOMMENDATIONS | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS | POLICE | RAPE | REFUGEE CAMPS | FEAR | LITIGATION | JURISPRUDENCE | UN | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Settlement and Resettlement | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Corrections Officers | Government | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Crime | Social Problems | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Emotions | Psychological Factors | Behavior | International Agencies | Organizations Document Number: 326745 |
| 20. Title: Human relations: building leadership in southern Sudan's health sector. Author: IntraHealth International. Capacity Project Source: Voices. 2008 Oct;(24):2 p. Abstract: This article presents the personal story of a manager in the Ministry of Health who benefited from the Project's leadership development training and went in to train key managers in the health sector. Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | PROGRESS REPORT | EVALUATION | GOVERNMENT AGENCIES | GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS | HEALTH PERSONNEL | TRAINERS | LEADERSHIP | HEALTH SERVICES | CAPACITY BUILDING | MANAGEMENT | HUMAN RESOURCES | TRAINING OF TRAINERS | Africa, North | Africa | Developing Countries | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Training Programs | Education | Program Sustainability | Programs | Economic Factors Document Number: 328334 |
| 21. Title: Motivating healthy timing and spacing of pregnancies -- lessons from the field. Author: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Center for Communication Programs. Health Communication Partnership Source: Communication Impact!. 2008 Jan;(24):[2] p. Abstract: There is strong evidence that healthy timing and spacing of pregnancy saves lives from six key studies conducted between 2000 and 2005 (supported by USAID). These studies indicate the lack of appropriate spacing significantly harms maternal and child health. Birth-to-pregnancy intervals of less than six months were associated with a 150% increased risk of maternal mortality. Risk of induced abortion was 650% greater, and miscarriage 230% greater among women with short intervals. Child health was also adversely affected, including a 223% increased risk of newborn death. Studies conducted in 2007 in Jordan, Uganda, and Egypt by the Health Communication Partnership (HCP) illustrate how health communication approaches can help change community norms and promote birth spacing. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: JORDAN | UGANDA | EGYPT | TECHNICAL REPORT | PREGNANCY INTERVALS | BIRTH SPACING | FAMILY SIZE | FAMILY PLANNING | COMMUNICATION STRATEGY | COMMUNICATION PROGRAMS | Developing Countries | Middle East | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Africa, North | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Communication Document Number: 327607 |
| 22. Title: Intercultural dialogue on violence against women. Final results of a Euro-Mediterranean project. Author: Mediterranean Institute of Gender Studies; ANTIGONE - Information Centre on Racism, Ecology, Peace and Non Violence; Alliance for Arab Women; Association HEURA; ISIS International. Center for Women and Development Source: Nicosia, Cyprus, Mediterranean Institute of Gender Studies, 2008. [99] p. Abstract: This 101-page document summarises the final results of the 2007 project and study carried out by the Mediterranean Institute of Gender Studies (MIGS) to enhance the participation of women in intercultural dialogue about violence against women (VAW), as well as to develop strategies for overcoming discrimination and VAW in the Euro-Mediterranean (Euro-Med) region. MIGS, based in Cyprus, and 4 co-participating organisations from the region - Egypt (Alliance for Arab Women [AAW]), Greece (ANTIGONE - Information Centre on Racism, Ecology, Peace and Non Violence), Morocco (ISIS Center for Women and Development), and Spain (Association HEURA) - identified 25 women from diverse backgrounds to discuss VAW at a 2-day workshop. Funding for the collaboration came from the Anna Lindh Foundation for the Dialogue between Cultures. The document includes a synthesis of the reports on VAW from the 5 partner countries, information from the workshop and training sessions conducted in Cyprus, and the short-listed photographs from the project's photo competition and photo exhibition. It also summarises ways and means for further cooperation among the participants in the area of eliminating VAW, as well as ways of sharing and disseminating the results of the project activities to relevant stakeholders in the partner countries and in the Euro-Med region. Language: English Keywords: GREECE | EGYPT | SPAIN | MOROCCO | SUMMARY REPORT | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | LEGISLATION | HUMAN RIGHTS | RAPE | CAUSES OF DEATH | INEQUALITIES | GENDER ISSUES | WOMEN'S HEALTH | POVERTY | HIV INFECTIONS | Europe, Southern | Europe | Developed Countries | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Europe, Southwestern | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Political Factors | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Health | Viral Diseases | Diseases Document Number: 327909 |
| 23. Title: The profile of IgG-antibody response against merozoite surface proteins 1 and 2 in severe Plasmodium falciparum malaria in Eastern Sudan. Author: A-Elgadir TM; Elbashir MI; Berzins K; Masuadi EM; A-Elbasit IE Source: Parasitology Research. 2008 Feb;102(3):401-409. Abstract: In this study, antibodies (Ab) directed against three MSP antigens; MSP1/19, MSP2/A, and MSP2/B were analyzed in blood samples obtained from 223 Sudanese patients who presented with either severe malaria (SM) or uncomplicated malaria (UM) and from 117 malaria-free donors (MF). The results showed that the prevalence of MSP Abs was associated with the clinical outcome of malaria infection, and the Ab prevalence was age-dependent (P less than 0.0005). More importantly, the prevalence of MSP Abs against the test antigens was lower in SM compared to UM (P=0.001 to 0.020), suggesting a protective role for these Abs against SM. Furthermore, the Ab responses between individual complications of SM were significantly different. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | CASE CONTROL STUDIES | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | TARGET POPULATION | PROTEINS | IMMUNOGLOBULIN ALTERATIONS | ANTIBODIES | ANTIGENS | MALARIA | PREVALENCE | AGE FACTORS | IMMUNITY, NATURAL | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Research Methodology | Studies | Program Design | Programs | Organization and Administration | Physiology | Biology | Hematological Effects | Hemic System | Immunologic Factors | Immunity | Immune System | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Measurement | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population Document Number: 325608 |
| 24. Title: Helping Egyptian women achieve optimal birth spacing intervals through fostering linkages between family planning and maternal / child health services. Author: Abdel-Tawab N; Loza S; Zaki A Source: [Washington, D.C.], Population Council, Frontiers in Reproductive Health, 2008 Sep. [45] p. (USAID Cooperative Agreement No. HRN-A-00-98-00012-00) Abstract: Population Council's USAID-funded Frontiers in Reproductive Health (FRONTIERS) program, in collaboration with the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population (MOHP) and the NGO 'Social Planning, Analysis and Administration Consultants'; (SPAAC), conducted an operations research study to measure the acceptability and effectiveness of two birth spacing message models. For Model I (health services model), birth spacing messages were communicated through services by health workers to women during prenatal and postpartum periods. Model II (community awareness model), provided this service plus an awareness raising component that targeted men through training community influentials to communicate messages. Both models proved effective in changing women's knowledge and attitudes towards birth spacing and in enhancing use of contraception at 10-11 months postpartum, by 48 percent among Model I mothers and 43 percent among Model II mothers, compared with 31 percent among control group mothers. Over the postpartum period, women in the two intervention groups used contraception more consistently than women in the control group (median duration of protection against pregnancy was 6.8 months for Model I mothers, 4.5 months for Model II mothers and 2.9 months for control group mothers). Both intervention models were associated with an increased utilization of services, especially family planning services, by women who only had one child (36 percent increase in Model I clinics, 47 percent increase in Model II clinics and 3.2 percent in control clinics). However, a fear of contraceptive side-effects continues to be a major concern among women and men in all groups and is an obstacle in achieving healthy birth intervals. (Excerpts) Language: English Keywords: EGYPT | SUMMARY REPORT | OPERATIONS RESEARCH | WOMEN | BIRTH SPACING | FAMILY PLANNING | MATERNAL-CHILD HEALTH SERVICES | KNOWLEDGE | ATTITUDES | POSTPARTUM | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | UTILIZATION OF HEALTH CARE | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Research Methodology | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Demographic Factors | Population | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Sociocultural Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Puerperium | Reproduction | Contraception Document Number: 331442 |
| 25. Title: Introducing the IMCI community component into the curriculum ofthe Faculty of Medicine, University of Gezira. Author: Abdelrahman SH; Alfadil SM Source: Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal. 2008 May-Jun;14(3):731-741. Abstract: In 2001 the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Gezira (FMUG) started to introduce the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) strategy into its medical curriculum. The emphasis was on pre-service training that addresses standard case management and the IMCI community component. This report presents the experience of FMUG in integrating such a training package into the medical curriculum. It explains the rationale for introducing the IMCI community component and the guiding principles for doing so. It describes the community-based courses into which the community component was integrated, the implementation and impact of the programme and the constraints faced. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | RESEARCH REPORT | MEDICAL STUDENTS | SCHOOLS, MEDICAL | CURRICULUM | TRAINING PROGRAMS | CHILD HEALTH | MANAGEMENT | STANDARDS | COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES | PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Students | Education | Schools | Health | Organization and Administration | Research Methodology | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care Document Number: 327177 |
| 26. Peer Reviewed Title: The antischistosomal efficacies of artesunate - sulfamethoxypyrazine-pyrimethamine and artemether - lumefantrine administered as treatment for uncomplicated, Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Author: Adam I; Elhardello OA; Elhadi MO; Abdalla E; Elmardi KA Source: Annals of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology. 2008 Jan;102(1):39-44. Abstract: Although artemisinin and its derivatives are widely used for the treatment of malaria, they also have antischistosomal activity. In a small study in eastern Sudan, the effects of the treatment of uncomplicated, Plasmodium falciparum malaria with artesunate-sulfamethoxypyrazine-pyrimethamine (AS-SMP) and artemether-lumefantrine (AT-LU) on co-infections with Schistosoma mansoni were therefore investigated. Faecal samples from 14 of the 306 patients screened on presentation, at the start of a clinical trial of antimalarial treatment, were found to contain Schistosoma mansoni eggs. For the treatment of their malaria, the 14 egg-positive cases, who were aged 6- 40 years (mean = 13.7 years), were each subsequently treated with three tablets of a fixed combination of AS-SMP, with a 12-h (six patients) or 24-h interval (five patients) between each tablet, or with six doses of AT-LU given over 3 days. When checked 28 and 29 days after the initiation of treatment, all 14 patients were found stool-negative for schistosome eggs. These results indicate that AS-SMP and AT-LU are currently very effective treatments not only for uncomplicated, P. falciparum malaria but also for S. mansoni infections. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | CLIENTS | MALARIA | SCHISTOSOMIASIS | TREATMENT | PARASITES | ADMINISTRATION AND DOSAGE | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Research Methodology | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Biology | Drugs Document Number: 325727 |
| 27. Title: Brief report: acute viral hepatitis and poor maternal and perinatal outcomes in pregnant Sudanese women. Author: Ahmed RE; Karsany MS; Adam I Source: Journal of Medical Virology. 2008 Oct;80(10):1747-8. Abstract: Sixteen pregnant women presented at the three main hospitals in Khartoum province, Sudan during the period of March-September 2007 with features of acute viral hepatitis. Their mean (SD) gestational age was 28.0(6.7) weeks. The etiology of acute viral hepatitis was hepatitis B virus in five women (31.3%), hepatitis C virus in one woman (6.3%), hepatitis E virus in eight women (50%), and hepatitis non-A-to-E virus in two women (12.5%). There were four (25%) maternal deaths and three (18.7%) intrauterine fetal deaths. Three of these maternal deaths were due to hepatitis E virus and the fourth was due to hepatitis B virus. Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | RESEARCH REPORT | PREGNANT WOMEN | PREGNANCY | HEPATITIS | MATERNAL HEALTH | MATERNAL MORTALITY | PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS | Africa, North | Africa | Developing Countries | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Reproduction | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Health | Mortality | Population Dynamics Document Number: 328934 |
| 28. Title: [Seroprevalence of HIV infection in pregnant women in the Annaba region (Algeria)] Seroprevalence de l'infection VIH chez les femmes enceintes dans la region de Author: Aidaoui M; Bouzbid S; Laouar M Source: Revue D'epidemiologie Et De Sante Publique. 2008 Aug;56(4):261-6. Abstract: BACKGROUND: The goal of the study is to assess the prevalence and the risk factors of the infection by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among pregnant women in the area of Annaba (Algeria). METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study with analytical purposes. The study included 3044 pregnant women admitted to two regional hospitals within a period of time of five months. Two Elisa tests were used to determine the prevalence of HIV infection. An analysis of medical history and serum tests for biomarkers hepatitis virus B infection, hepatitis virus C infection and syphilis to determine the possible mode of contamination, by blood or sexual transmission. RESULTS: HIV prevalence was 5.3/1000 (CI 95%; 3.12-8.37), HBV prevalence 24.7/1000 (CI 95%; 19.6-30.7), HCV prevalence 6.3/1000 (CI 95%; 3.8-9.5) and syphilis prevalence 2.6/1000 (CI 95%; 1.2-5). On average, pregnant women infected by HIV were 33+/-5 years old, married, and had three children. The analysis of the markers of exposure risk investigated in our study showed that the pregnant women infected with HIV do not compose a specific risk group. Overall our results suggest that the more probable route of HIV transmission for women of the Annaba region is via heterosexual intercourse with spouse. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of HIV infection in Annaba remains high 5.3/1000, compared with the national average of 1/1000. In this region, pregnant women infected with HIV are not part of a group at particular risk. The HIV monitoring should be further strengthened in our country. Language: French Keywords: ALGERIA | RESEARCH REPORT | PREVALENCE | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | PREGNANT WOMEN | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | HEPATITIS | SYPHILIS | BLOOD | TRANSMISSION | EXPOSURE | HIV INFECTIONS | Africa, North | Africa | Developing Countries | Measurement | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Sexually Transmitted Diseases | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Hemic System | Physiology | Biology | Risk Factors Document Number: 329308 |
| 29. Peer Reviewed Title: Factors associated with wife beating in Egypt: analysis of two surveys (1995 and 2005). Author: Akmatov MK; Mikolajczyk RT; Labeeb S; Dhaher E; Khan MM Source: BMC Women's Health. 2008;8:15. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Wife beating is an important public health problem in many developing countries. We assessed the rates of wife beating and examined factors associated with wife beating in 1995 and 2005 in Egypt. METHODS: We used data from two Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) conducted in Egypt in 1995 and 2005 using multistage household sampling. Data related to wife beating included information from 7122 women in 1995 and 5612 women in 2005. Logistic regression was used to analyze factors independently associated with wife beating. Special weights were used to obtain nationally representative estimates. RESULTS: In 1995 17.5% of married women in Egypt experienced wife beating in the last 12 months, in 2005--18.9% or 16.0%, using different measures. The association between socio-demographic differentials and wife beating was weaker in the newer survey. The 12-month prevalence of wife beating was lower only when both partners were educated, but the differences across education levels were less pronounced in 2005. Based on the information available in the 2005 survey, more educated women experienced less severe forms of wife beating than less educated women. CONCLUSION: Different measures used in both surveys make a direct comparison difficult. The observed patterns indicate that the changes in prevalence may be masked by two opposite processes occurring in the society: a decrease in (severe forms of) wife beating and an increase in reporting of wife beating. Improving the access to education for women and raising education levels in the whole society may help reducing wife beating. Language: English Keywords: EGYPT | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | SPOUSE | PREVALENCE | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Research Methodology | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Population | Data Analysis | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Measurement | Crime | Social Problems | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors Document Number: 329026 |
| 30. Peer Reviewed Title: Hyper-reactive malarial splenomegaly (HMS) in malaria endemic area in Eastern Sudan. Author: Allam MM; Alkadarou TA; Ahmed BG; Elkhair IS; Alansary EH Source: Acta Tropica. 2008 Feb;105(2):196-199. Abstract: Hyper-reactive Malarial Splenomegaly (HMS) is massive enlargement of the spleen resulting from abnormal immune response to repeated attacks of malaria. The present study was carried out in Kassala city, Eastern Sudan where HMS is considered as highly prevalent. The objectives of this study were to determine the incidence of HMS in Eastern Sudan, and to identify basic laboratory and clinical characteristics of this condition in Sudanese patients. In the period between January and March 2004, a cross-sectional study was carried out in four health centers in Kassala city. In the current study 114 out 1010 (11%) medical cases examined were found to have enlarged spleens, 87 (9%) of them were diagnosed as HMS. Sixty-three percent of HMS cases were males and the rest were females. The mean age of HMS patients was 28 years. Clinical investigations showed that all cases suffered from abdominal pain in the upper left quadrant and all had a palpable firm spleen (10-26 cm) below the costal margin. Laboratoryexaminations showed that 74% of the cases were anaemic and the mean white blood count for all cases was 4237 cell/mL3. Serum concentration of IgM in all subjects was above the threshold of the mean value plus 2 S.D. for 35 asymptomatic controls. In more than 70% of the HMS patients (53 individuals) the spleens were impalpable after the third month of the treatment. Our data indicate that HMS is one of the major causes of tropical splenomegaly in Eastern Sudan. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | RESEARCH REPORT | INCIDENCE | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS | MALARIA | ANEMIA | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Measurement | Research Methodology | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Diseases | Parasitic Diseases Document Number: 326235 |
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